yenlo Review of The All New Truth or Consequences

The All New Truth or Consequences (1950–1988)

Prize money was secondary to fun and laughter.

[23 May 2000]

There was once a time on Television when game shows were not about average people winning tons of money but about entertaining the viewing audience and just plain fun. TorC was one of those shows. Contestants never knew what was really in store for them on this show. At times they would be held back stage awaiting their turn and what appeared to be a caged Gorilla (actually an actor in an Ape suit) would escape and the reactions of the contestants was caught by a hidden camera which the studio audience and the Television viewer would watch. Surprise family reunions were held. Strange tests of skill and endurance were undertaken by contestants some time lasting several weeks and the progress of the contestant was monitored and followed each episode. In addition the Stunts and Gags sometimes didn't go according to plan which often times made things more zany. TorC is long gone from the airwaves which is too bad because it like Candid Camera caught people in the act of being themselves.